New season licenses are more costly

Thursday

Aug 20, 2009 at 12:01 AM

Special to the Bulletin

AUSTIN — Texas hunting and fishing licenses for 2009-2010 went on sale Saturday, and sportsmen are reminded all current Texas annual hunting and fishing licenses (except for the year-to-date fishing license) expire Aug. 31.

Most fees for recreational hunting and fishing licenses have increased by 5 percent; resident hunting licenses now cost $25, while the Super Combo all-inclusive license costs $68. There is no increase in price for any of the required stamp endorsements or the $48 Annual Public Hunting permit.

Non-resident hunting licenses increase by $15 from $300 to $315, which also reflects a 5 percent hike. The resident freshwater fishing package costs $30 and the saltwater fishing package is $35.

Effective Sept. 1, the resident lifetime fishing and hunting licenses will increase to $1,000 and the lifetime combination license increases to $1,800.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department issues 2.1 million hunting and fishing licenses annually through the agency’s 28 field offices, more than 65 state parks and at over 1,500 retailers across Texas.

Licenses may also be purchased online through the TPWD Web site or by phone (800-895-4248). Call center hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday — Friday. The online transaction system is available 24/7. A $5 convenience fee will be charged for online and phone orders.

A license confirmation number is issued at the time of purchase for online and phone orders, and the physical license is mailed separately. Confirmation numbers will verify that a license has been purchased, which is sufficient for dove hunting, but will not allow hunters to take fish or wildlife that requires a tag.